Common sunflower (Helianthus annuus) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

Common sunflower requires infrequent but deep watering in order to help its roots grow. The key growth period is three weeks before and after flowering; at this time the plant should be watered weekly until the topsoil is moist.

Fertilization

Common sunflower draws all of its nutrient needs from the soil, so it only requires fertilization if it is planted in very poor soils. If this is the case then add a slow-release granular fertilizer, but be sure to apply it in moderation since over-fertilization can cause its stem to become weak and break.

Pruning

Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

Soil

Loam, Sand, Clay, Chalky, Neutral, Alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

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Common sunflower

Water

Twice per week

Sunlight

Full sun

Hardiness Zones

4 to 8

Planting Time

Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

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Questions About Common sunflower

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Common sunflower?

To water Common sunflower, you can use a garden hose with a spray nozzle, a watering can, or just about any other common watering tool. Generally, Common sunflower is not too picky about how they receive their water, as they can live off of rainwater, tap water, or filtered water. Often, you should try not to water this plant from overhead, as doing so can damage the leaves and flowers and may lead to disease as well. At times, the best method for watering this plant is to set up a drip irrigation system. These systems work well for Common sunflower as they apply water evenly and directly to the soil. For one Common sunflower that grows in a container, you can use a similar watering approach while changing the tools you use. To water a container-grown Common sunflower, use a cup, watering can, or your tap to apply water directly to the soil.

What should I do if I water my Common sunflower too much or too little?

The remedy for underwatering Common sunflower is somewhat obvious. When you notice that your plant lacks moisture, simply begin watering it on a more regular basis. The issue of overwatering can be a much more dire situation, especially if you fail to notice it early. When your Common sunflower is overwatered, it may contract diseases that lead to its decline and death. The best way to prevent this outcome is to choose a proper growing location, one that receives plenty of sunlight to help dry the soil and has good enough drainage to allow excess water to drain rather than pooling and causing waterlogged soils. If you overwater your Common sunflower that lives in a pot, you may need to consider changing it to a new pot. Your previous container may not have contained soil with good drainage or may not have had sufficient drainage holes. As you repot your overwatered Common sunflower, make sure to add loose soils and to use a pot that drains efficiently.

How often should I water my Common sunflower?

Common sunflower needs water regularly throughout the growing season. Beginning in spring, you should plan to water this plant about once per week. As the season presses on and grows warmer, you may need to increase your watering rate to about two to three times per week. Exceeding at this rate can be detrimental to your Common sunflower. With that said, you should also ensure that the soil in which your Common sunflower grows remains relatively moist but not wet, regardless of how often you must water to make that the case. Watering Common sunflower that lives in a pot is a bit different. Generally, you'll need to increase your watering frequency, as the soil in a pot can heat up and dry out a bit faster than ground soil. As such, you should plan to water a container-grown Common sunflower a few times per week in most cases, versus just once per week for an in-ground plant.

How much water does my Common sunflower need?

There are a few different ways you can go about determining how much water to give to your Common sunflower. Some gardeners choose to pick their water volume based on feeling the soil for moisture. That method suggests that you should water until you feel that the first six inches of soil have become moist. Alternatively, you can use a set measurement to determine how much to water your Common sunflower. Typically, you should give your Common sunflower about two gallons of water per week, depending on how hot it is and how quickly the soil becomes dry. However, following strict guidelines like that can lead to overwatering if your plant requires less than two gallons per week for whatever reason. When growing Common sunflower in a container, you will need to use a different method to determine how much water to supply. Typically, you should give enough water to moisten all of the layers of soil that have become dry. To test if that is the case, you can simply stick your finger in the soil to feel for moisture. You can also water the soil until you notice a slight trickle of excess water exiting the drainage holes of your pot.

How can I tell if i'm watering my Common sunflower enough?

It can be somewhat difficult to avoid overwatering your Common sunflower. On the one hand, these plants have relatively deep roots that require you to moisten the soil weekly. On the other hand, Common sunflower are plants that are incredibly susceptible to root rot. Along with root rot, your Common sunflower may also experience browning as a result of overwatering. Underwatering is far less likely for your Common sunflower as these plants can survive for a while in the absence of supplemental watering. However, if you go too long without giving this plant water, it will likely begin to wilt. You may also notice dry leaves.

How should I water my Common sunflower through the seasons?

You can expect your Common sunflower’s water needs to increase as the season moves on. During spring, you should water about once per week. Then, as the summer heat arrives, you will likely need to give a bit more water to your Common sunflower, at times increasing to about three times per week. This is especially true of Common sunflower that grow in containers, as the soil in a container is far more likely to dry out faster than ground soil when the weather is warm. In autumn, while your Common sunflower is still in bloom, it may need a bit less water as the temperature has likely declined, and the sun is no longer as strong as it was in summer.

How should I water my Common sunflower at different growth stages?

Common sunflower will move through several different growth stages throughout the year, some of which may require more water than others. For example, you will probably start your Common sunflower as a seed. While the seed germinates, you should plant to give more water than your Common sunflower will need later in life, watering often enough to maintain consistent soil moisture. After a few weeks, your Common sunflower will grow above the soil and may need slightly less water than at the seedling phase. Then, once this plant is mature, you can begin to use the regular watering frequency of about once per week. As flower development takes place, you may need to give slightly more water to aid the process.

What's the difference between watering Common sunflower indoors and outdoors?

There are several reasons why most Common sunflower grow outdoors rather than indoors. The first is that these plants typically grow to tall. The second reason is that Common sunflower needs more daily sunlight than most indoor growing locations can provide. If you are able to provide a suitable indoor growing location, you may find that you need to give your Common sunflower water a bit more often than you would in an outdoor growing location. Part of the reason for this is that indoor growing locations tend to be a lot drier than outdoor ones due to HVAC units. The other reason for this is that soil in containers can dry out relatively quickly as well compared to soil in the ground.

Is pruning necessary for my Common sunflower?

Common sunflower is a kind of annual plant so it doesn't need much pruning. You only need to cut off and clean the diseased, yellow or dropped leaves and stems during its growing period. This will help your Common sunflower to stay away from pathogens infection.

How do I prune my Common sunflower?

During the growth of the plant, yellowing, drying and spotted leaves are produced, and these spotted and discolored leaves need to be trimmed off. If the whole piece of leave is discolored or infected, you will need to cut it off completely. In other situations, you will only need to cut off the discolored or infected part on certain leaves. Common sunflower above the ground will die and dry up in the winter, and the dead plants need to be cleaned up.

Are there any cautions I should be careful with when pruning my Common sunflower?

Common sunflower leaves are delicate, so take care not to score or bruise them. Unless the leaves are withered or heavily discolored, do not prune the leaves from the lowermost branches unless they’re damaged. They typically grow the largest, so they supply the plant with critical energy to keep it growing right. Please prevent the wounds from water after pruning until they are fully recovered. Remember always sterilize the tools before pruning. When the pruning is finished, please throw all the waste leaves and stems into the trashbins to avoid diseases and bugs.

Are there any tips for pruning my Common sunflower?

Sterilize all the tools before pruning; unclean tools will pass pathogens to the plant through wounds;
Prune on sunny days because the new cuts will be infected by pathogens if they're distained by rain or water.
Throw all the waste leaves and stems into trashbins, they will easily rot and attract diseases and bugs

When should/shouldn't I prune my Common sunflower?

Expect to prune your Common sunflower every week if it’s growing well or every two weeks if it grows slowly. It is always good to prune it on sunny days because if you prune it on rainy days, the rainwater will distain the cuts and cause the whole plant to be infected.

What should I look for when pruning my Common sunflower in different seasons?

Because Common sunflower is an annual plant, the pruning should take place basically during the seasons that the plant grows rapidly. During the growth of the plant, yellowing, drying and spotted leaves are produced, and these spotted and discolored leaves need to be trimmed off.

How much sunlight should Common sunflower get per day to grow healthily?

You must expose the plants to at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. They prefer more exposure to the morning light, especially in the summer. The Common sunflower needs full sun and more sunlight that it can get. The more light these species get, the more they can manufacture food, produce beautiful blooms, and survive.

What type of sunlight does Common sunflower need?

The Common sunflower grows best under full sunlight. It's best not to crowd them together so they can get exposure to the sun evenly. The leaves shouldn't be starved with sunlight. If planted in pots, try to expose the herbaceous flowers in windows with direct sun and ensure they receive full sunlight regardless of the months.

They don't tend to do well in partial or filtered light as this will not produce strong stems and healthy flowers. It's best if the Common sunflower is always exposed to the sun.

Can sunlight hurt plants? How to protect Common sunflower from sun and heat damage?

When the temperature rises above 90℉(32℃), the Common sunflower can get damaged by extreme temperatures, especially if they are exposed to many hours of sun. It's always ideal for providing some shade from the light in the afternoon in the summer. It's always important to keep in mind that the sunlight in the summer is stronger than the one in the winter. Sunlight exposure is also 50% longer in the summer than in the winter.

If the Common sunflower is too stressed with sunlight, you might want to keep them fully hydrated. Water them when the top of the soil is about 2 inches dry, and move the plants indoors if it's too hot outside. This is the case if they are planted in containers.

It can be normal for the plant leaves to wilt during the day. Generally, they can recover at night. However, when you notice that the Common sunflower is still drooping, this means that the plant is losing water fast, and you need to water them.

Should I protect Common sunflower from sun exposure?

The Common sunflower does not need any protection from the sun. In fact, they love the sun, and some species are heliotropic. Plant them in south-facing gardens whenever possible so they can be exposed from morning to afternoon. While the sun can benefit them, some may experience a sunburn. You might offer protection from the afternoon and midday sun through a shade of a tree or a wall.

Growing the Common sunflower in shady areas is impossible because the larger flowers would require a lot of energy to grow and produce. Always provide the lighting conditions and set them in an area with full sun for best results.

What will happen if Common sunflower gets inadequate sunlight?

When the Common sunflower does not get adequate sunlight, or they are not placed in full sun locations, it's worth noting that the photosynthetic process will slow down. A lack of sunlight will cause the stems to become more leggy since they become thin and long since they tend to seek too much sunlight. They will not bloom and produce seeds in the shade.

Inadequate sunlight will also mean that the older leaves can die, the color of the new ones is lighter than the old foliage, and the new growth is smaller than the last ones.

The Common sunflower indeed loves the sun so much. However, they can wilt when exposed to excessive heat and ultraviolet light during the extreme summer months, so be careful. You might want to cover them with a net that has a green shade, especially in the summer, to prevent the leaves and the flowers from scorching. When they are indoors, reduce the heat with the help of a fan.

Does Common sunflower need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

When the Common sunflower is growing, they need more light than their mature counterparts. The younger ones should receive adequate light, but they might not be prepared for sudden full sunlight, especially if they are grown in a nursery. They can be more sensitive to the summer sun, so the lighting should be gradual and slow.

How much light does Common sunflower need for photosynthesis?

During summer or late spring, the Common sunflower needs 6 to 8 hours of direct light every single day. This is whether they are planted outdoors. If the Common sunflower is planted in pots or you're growing them in the winter, they need direct fluorescent lights that help them grow better. Make sure to place them in an indoor area where they are facing south or east so they can have enough sunlight for photosynthesis.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Common sunflower?

When transplanting the plants, they should not be exposed to sudden sunlight. Give the Common sunflower to grow and mature before transplanting outside. Some species of herbaceous plants can grow taller and might cast a shade on other young plants. Allow between 80 to 100 days of growing season before planting another batch to ensure that every plant receives more than enough sunlight for at least 6 hours a day.

Make sure that the Common sunflower receives the best light possible, especially if it's planted in a nursery. These are sun-loving plants, but too much sunlight with a very hot temperature is also detrimental to their growth. Indoor lights should be replaced with natural sunlight as much as possible since these species crave this every day.

What is the optimal temperature for Common sunflower?

The best temperature for Common sunflower depends on the time of year. There are two primary seasons to discuss for temperature: the growing season, and the dormancy season. During the growing season, once Common sunflower has begun to sprout, the ideal temperature range should be anywhere from 65~80℉(18~27℃). Any colder than 15℉(-10℃), and the plant will suffer; its leaves may brown and wilt, but if this is a short cold snap, then Common sunflower may be able to survive with some help.

During the warmer parts of the year, Common sunflower will need to be similarly protected from temperatures that are too high. 95-105℉ (35-40℃) is the top of this plant’s temperature range, and anything above that will compromise the integrity of the foliage and blooms of Common sunflower. Hotter temperatures can cause wilting, drooping, and even sunburn on the leaves, which can be difficult for Common sunflower to recover from. There are quite a few ways to combat this issue that are quick and easy!

Temperature requirements for first year or seedling Common sunflower

If this is the first year of your Common sunflower outside as a new plant, then it may need a little extra tending during the coldest months of the year. Not only can frost more severely damage a first-year Common sunflower, but it can also prevent it from growing back as a healthy plant come spring. This plant needs to be kept at 40℉(5℃) or above when they’re not yet established, which can be done either by bringing your Common sunflower inside for a month or two, or putting up mulch or fabric barriers that protect from frost damage.

It’s also a good idea to plant Common sunflower in a shadier spot during the first year or two, as smaller and weaker plants have a more difficult time maintaining their own temperatures in the heat. First-year Common sunflower should receive no more than five hours of direct sunlight per day, particularly if the ambient daytime temperature gets above 80℉(27℃). Shadecloth and frequent watering or misting are the keys to summer heat control.

How can I protect Common sunflower from extreme temperatures?

If cold temperatures (below 15℉(-10℃)) do occur during the growing season, there are a few measures you can take to help protect Common sunflower from frost or cold damage. If you’re growing Common sunflower in a container, then the container can simply be brought inside in bright, indirect light until the temperatures rise up over the lower threshold again. Another option that’s better suited for ground-planted Common sunflower is to use mulch or horticultural fabric to create an insulated barrier around the plant, which will protect the plant from frost and cold wind.

For temperatures that are hotter than 80℉(27℃) in the shade during the day, be careful to only expose Common sunflower to six hours or less of sunlight per day, preferably in the morning hours. Putting up shade cloth, or a fine plastic mesh, can help reduce the amount of direct sunlight that hits the plant during the hottest parts of the day. You can also install a misting system that allows for a slow release of cooling mist around the base of the plant during the day to lower ground temperatures.

Dormant season temperature recommendations for Common sunflower

During the cold winter months, Common sunflower needs a certain measure of cold in order to stay in dormancy until it’s time to sprout. Sprouting too early, that is before the danger of the last frost has passed, can be fatal to Common sunflower, especially if it’s already had a head start when the frost hits. Winter temperatures should ideally stay below 32℉(0℃), but if they get up to 40℉(5℃), everything will be just fine.

An unexpected warm spell during the cold months, which can happen in more temperate climates like woodland rainforests, can trigger a premature sprout from Common sunflower. In this case, if there’s still imminent danger of frost, you may want to try covering it with clear plastic on stakes so that the cold has less of a chance of damaging the new sprout. This setup can be removed when the danger of frost has passed. Occasionally, Common sunflower will be able to resprout at the correct time without any help, but this method increases the chances of a successful second sprouting.

Why do I need to fertilize my Common sunflower?

Plants need nutrients to survive; most gardeners, regardless of experience, are well aware of this factor. However, without food, Common sunflower will die out soon after the first pollination. Therefore, providing the right type of nutrients in the right amounts is the best way to keep Common sunflower going throughout the blooming season and producing large, beautiful flowers.

Fertilizer also helps Common sunflower build a large, healthy root system. This plant needs all the help it can get since its root system is very thin and easily damaged. Fertilizing at planting helps Common sunflower build a solid root structure that not only provides stability to the plant, but also sets the stage for a sensational flowering performance. When timed correctly, fertilization can greatly extend Common sunflower's flowering period.

When is the best time to fertilize my Common sunflower?

Common sunflower puts on tremendous growth early in the growing season, once the danger of the last frost has passed. It’s during this time that Common sunflower should be fertilized; more specifically, during planting. The idea is to apply when the plant is first planted in the ground or in planters; however you choose to plant it. This will be the only dose of fertilizer until later in the year, when blooms are in full force.

Once the season is in full swing and Common sunflower has opened most of its blooms at full size, it’s time to start fertilizing again. Around the time when blooms are at peak output, begin fertilizing again once every three to four weeks, as weather permits. Then, after Common sunflower starts to put out fewer new blooms, stop fertilizing; there’s no need to fertilize when the plant can’t produce any more blooms.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Common sunflower?

While regular fertilizing is important for Common sunflower, it absolutely can be applied at the wrong time. Some situations call for holding back the fertilizer once in a while. These are usually climate related, but they also include a variety of controllable factors. Essentially, when something is wrong with the plant, the soil, or the climate, wait it out until things have been smoothed over and the plant has recovered.

An example of when not to fertilize is if there are severe or unexpected changes in the weather. If a cold nap suddenly comes in the middle of summer, wait until it’s warm again to start fertilizing. The same stands for if the soil becomes too dry or too packed to absorb anything. At this point, fertilizer will be going straight to the roots, rather than being diffused by soil before it reaches them. As you can imagine, the roots of Common sunflower aren’t very fond of that.

When temperatures soar during the hottest parts of the day into the 90-degree fahrenheit range, don’t apply fertilizer. Since fertilizer can be broken down at various speeds depending on temperature, it’s especially important not to allow hot temperatures to break it down too quickly. Pests or diseases should also be treated and cleared up before re-fertilizing.

What type of fertilizer does my Common sunflower need?

Most types of Common sunflower need the same general balance of nutrients from fertilizer. These should come in the form of a fertilizer that’s formulated specifically for high-yield blooming plants. A fertilizer with a higher level of phosphorus is the best option. This type of fertilizer has a higher P number in its NPK number, for example 10-30-10.

Several fertilizer brands sell a fertilizer that’s perfect for blooming plants like Common sunflower, which are an easy and fuss-free way to provide the right nutrients. If you do choose to use a pre-mixed fertilizer, follow the directions on the package to prevent Common sunflower from getting too much or too little fertilizer, both of which can cause the plant to grow poorly or even wilt entirely.

How do I fertilize my Common sunflower?

Depending on the type of fertilizer you have, specific fertilizing instructions may vary. However, there are a few general tips for applying most types of fertilizer to Common sunflower. The first fertilizer application, which should be when you first plant Common sunflower, will likely consist of mixing the recommended amount of fertilizer into the soil before planting and watering in the Common sunflower.

Subsequent fertilizing may look a little different. For pellet fertilizers, simply mix the pellets into the top inch of soil around the outer edge of the plant, where the roots are. Water them in very well at first, then water regularly after that. Other fertilizers may be mixed into a watering can and applied just like a regular watering. Follow any instructions on fertilizer packaging for consistency, but if you’d rather keep things on a regular schedule, shoot for every three to four weeks.

What happens if I fertilize my Common sunflower too much?

Over-fertilizing is a very easy mistake to make for first-time gardeners, or even for experienced gardeners trying out a new product. Fortunately, Common sunflower makes this issue known very well by displaying several signs of distress. You may notice that its leaves are yellowing quickly, the foliage may wilt, or new blooms may be under-developed. These are all clear signs of too much food.

When you fertilize Common sunflower too frequently, you create uninhabitable soil conditions. Soil may become too hot, which is a term used to describe when soil is too saturated with minerals, nutrients, or compost, and ends up burning the roots of anything planted in it. It’s a good idea to flush out the soil well once a month or so, just by watering twice as much as normal with good drainage.

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More About How-Tos

Explore 5 of plant how-tos on Feng shui direction, Water, Lighting, Temperature, Transplant, etc.

Feng shui direction

South

Common sunflower is often considered harmonious when integrated into a Feng Shui setting. Its striking yellow petals and vibrant energy enhance prosperity and abundance. Facing South, this plant may strengthen the energy of recognition and fame, but a balanced arrangement is indispensable in maintaining optimal energy flow.

Water

Twice per week

Common sunflower, or Helianthus annuus, is native to the arid plains of North America where rainfall is seasonal and unpredictable. Its watering preferences reflect this environment, requiring deep but occasional watering, mimicking rainfall followed by long periods of dryness. Overwatering can lead to soggy soil and plant disease. Therefore, making sure it dries out between waterings and providing well-drained soil can protect common sunflower's roots and promote overall health.

Lighting

Full sun

The common sunflower thrives when basked in abundant light for most parts of the day. Even with a decline in light for a few hours, it can still blossom healthily. In its natural, open environment, it is used to an overflow of sunlight. However, too little sunlight tends to cause decreased flowering, while overexposure may cause fading or wilting.

Temperature

0 38 ℃

Common sunflower is native to temperate environments where temperatures generally range from 68 to 95℉ (20 to 35℃). It thrives best in these warm conditions. Depending on the season, adjusting temperatures to remain within this range may enhance optimal growth.

Transplant

1-2 feet

The ideal season for transplanting common sunflower is from mid to late spring, allowing it to fully benefit from ample sunshine and warmth. Choose a sunny location with adequate space for its growth. Remember to handle common sunflower carefully during transplant to avoid damaging its roots.

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Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Common sunflower based on 10 million real cases

Leaf beetles

Leaf beetles are a class of colored insects 1 to 2 cm in size. They gnaw on leaves and petals resulting in small, round holes scattered over the surface.

Solutions: For less serious cases: Remove beetles, nymphs, and eggs. Remove all life stages of the beetles and kill them by placing them in a bucket of warm, soapy water. This can be done more easily by placing the bucket under affected leaves and shaking the plant. This method is most effective in the afternoon when leaf beetles are more active. Always dispose of insects in a sealed bag or container to avoid escape and spread. To treat more serious infestations: Apply organic insecticides. Use naturally-derived insecticides before moving on to synthetic insecticides. Neem oil and pyrethrum are naturally-derived insecticides that should be applied following label instructions. Apply synthetic insecticides. Examples of insecticides effective for leaf beetles include carbaryl, permethrin, and bifenthrin. Apply insecticides according to label instructions.

Caterpillars

Caterpillars are fleshy moth or butterfly larvae that come in an array of colors, patterns, and even hairstyles. They chew on leaves and flower petals, creating large, irregular holes.

Solutions: Even though caterpillars are diverse, they all chew on plant parts and can cause significant damage if present in large numbers. For severe cases: Apply insecticide. For an organic solution, spray plants with a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), which specifically affects the larval stage of moths and butterflies. Be sure to coat plants, since caterpillars need to ingest Bt for it to be effective. This will not harm other insects. Spray a chili extract. Chili seeds can be cooked in water to make a spicy spray that caterpillars don't like. Spray this mixture on the plants, but be aware it will also be spicy to humans. Introduce beneficial insects. Release beneficial insects to the garden that eat caterpillars, such as parasitic wasps. For less severe cases: Hand pick. Using gloves, pick off caterpillars on plants and dispose of them in a bucket of soapy water. Dust plants with diatomaceous earth. This powder is harmless to humans but irritates caterpillars. Therefore, it will make it difficult for caterpillars to move and eat.

Sap-sucking insects

Sap-sucking insects can create dense clusters of small yellow or white spots on the leaves.

Solutions: Sap-sucking insects can be hard to spot, as they are often small and attach to the undersides of plant leaves. If you see signs of an infestation, follow these steps to eradicate it. Hand-pick bugs and remove eggs: Inspect your plants for insects and drop any you find in a container of soapy water. Look carefully at the undersides of plant leaves and squish any egg clusters you find. Use Insecticide: Targeted spraying can take out sap-sucking insects. Small infestations can be controlled with insecticidal soap, though larger outbreaks might require a stronger spray. Introduce natural predators: Many insects, including ladybugs and praying mantises, love to feast on sap-suckers. You can purchase them at garden stores and release them near infected plants, or encourage wild ones by creating habitat space.

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.

Leaf rot

This pathogen can cause the leaves to rot.

Solutions: Bacterial infections need to be treated quickly to prevent the spread to neighboring, healthy plants, potentially wiping out large sections of your indoor or outdoor garden. In mild cases: Use sterilized (10% bleach solution) pruning shears or scissors to remove any infected plant parts, making sure to dispose of them off site. Use a copper-based bactericide to treat the unaffected foliage, as well as the soil, and neighboring plants. Follow the manufacturer’s rate and timing directions found on the product label. In severe cases, where more than half the leaves are affected: Remove all of the infected plants from the garden, disposing of them off site. Treat the soil and neighboring plants using a copper-based bactericide. Follow the manufacturer’s rate and timing directions found on the product label.

Plant dried up

The entire plant may dry out due to dieback or normal seasonal dormancy.

Solutions: The solution for a dried out plant depends on the cause, so determine the cause before selecting a treatment method. Adjust your watering: Stick your finger in the soil near the roots. If it feels bone dry or overly saturated, you need to adjust your watering frequency accordingly. Prune back dead foliage: Snip off any brown stems and leaves on the plant to make space for new growth. This encourages the roots to send up fresh stems. Move to a proper environment. This may involve decreasing or increasing sun exposure, depending on the species. Decrease fertilizer applications. If you have applied too much fertilizer, you can repot plants with fresh potting soil. Wait. If your plant has dried out as daylight is decreasing, it is entering dormancy. Decrease watering and wait until the plant resumes growth.

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Weed Control

Weeds

While some cultivars and hybrids of common sunflower (Helianthus annuus) are grown as ornamental plants or as oil crops, the wild form is considered an agricultural weed in Europe, including Spain, France and the Balkan countries. It is also listed as a noxious weed in the US state of Iowa. The plant's weedy form is distinguished by its strong branching and multiple flower heads. There are several reasons why common sunflower is considered an agricultural weed. It has high water needs, plus it grows tall and rapidly. It has a tendency to self-seed and grow freely on disturbed land, including the edges of corn, soy, and commercial sunflower fields, drawing water and nutrients away from the desired crops. Intensive herbicide use in maize fields can render weedy common sunflower herbicide-resistant.

How to Control it

The best time to remove weeds is before bearing fruits. Pulling out: For a kind of herb, wear gloves or use tools to dig weeds. Pruning: For an annual plant, pruning its aboveground parts can effectively control the growth. Plowing: Plow the soil before cultivation and bury the whole weed in the soil. Chemical control: If in large amounts, weeds can be removed by the herbicide.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Plains

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

Yellow

Orange

Red

Brown

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Common sunflower

Generally, most people think that the naming of sunflower is based on the direction of sunrise and sunset. However, this is not the case. Matured sunflower will only face the East and it will not rotate with the direction of the sun. Nevertheless, the misconception of it facing the sun has embedded deeply in people's mind. Hence, it is called common sunflower.

Symbolism

Silent love, admiration, loyalty, long life, good fortune

Usages

Artistic Value

The common sunflower is often the subject of music, poetry and paintings. The most famous painting is Van Gogh's Sunflower.

Environmental Protection Value

It can purify the metal content of the soil.

Garden Use

The bright and beautiful common sunflower is a common annual in sunny home gardens. The tall stalks and large sunny blooms make it a beautiful backdrop to many other low-growing flowers in cottage and prairie/meadow gardens. Beans and squash are good veggies to grow with sunflowers, as they help balance the pH in the soil.

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Family

Daisy

Genus

Sunflowers

Species

Common sunflower

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Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

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Add to My Garden

Common sunflower

Helianthus annuus

Also known as: Annual sunflower

Water

Twice per week

Sunlight

Full sun

Care Guide for Common sunflower

Water

Fertilization

Pruning

Soil

Loam, Sand, Clay, Chalky, Neutral, Alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

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Questions About Common sunflower

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Common sunflower?

What should I do if I water my Common sunflower too much or too little?

How often should I water my Common sunflower?

How much water does my Common sunflower need?

How can I tell if i'm watering my Common sunflower enough?

How should I water my Common sunflower through the seasons?

How should I water my Common sunflower at different growth stages?

What's the difference between watering Common sunflower indoors and outdoors?

Is pruning necessary for my Common sunflower?

How do I prune my Common sunflower?

Are there any cautions I should be careful with when pruning my Common sunflower?

Are there any tips for pruning my Common sunflower?

When should/shouldn't I prune my Common sunflower?

What should I look for when pruning my Common sunflower in different seasons?

How much sunlight should Common sunflower get per day to grow healthily?

What type of sunlight does Common sunflower need?

Can sunlight hurt plants? How to protect Common sunflower from sun and heat damage?

Should I protect Common sunflower from sun exposure?

What will happen if Common sunflower gets inadequate sunlight?

Does Common sunflower need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

How much light does Common sunflower need for photosynthesis?

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Common sunflower?

What is the optimal temperature for Common sunflower?

Temperature requirements for first year or seedling Common sunflower

How can I protect Common sunflower from extreme temperatures?

Dormant season temperature recommendations for Common sunflower

Why do I need to fertilize my Common sunflower?

When is the best time to fertilize my Common sunflower?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Common sunflower?

What type of fertilizer does my Common sunflower need?

How do I fertilize my Common sunflower?

What happens if I fertilize my Common sunflower too much?

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More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Common sunflower based on 10 million real cases

Leaf beetles

Leaf beetles are a class of colored insects 1 to 2 cm in size. They gnaw on leaves and petals resulting in small, round holes scattered over the surface.

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Caterpillars

Caterpillars are fleshy moth or butterfly larvae that come in an array of colors, patterns, and even hairstyles. They chew on leaves and flower petals, creating large, irregular holes.

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Sap-sucking insects

Sap-sucking insects can create dense clusters of small yellow or white spots on the leaves.

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Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

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Leaf rot

This pathogen can cause the leaves to rot.

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Plant dried up

The entire plant may dry out due to dieback or normal seasonal dormancy.

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Weed Control

Weeds

How to Control it

Do you have weeds in your garden?

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Plains

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

Yellow

Orange

Red

Brown

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Common sunflower

Symbolism

Silent love, admiration, loyalty, long life, good fortune

Usages

Artistic Value

The common sunflower is often the subject of music, poetry and paintings. The most famous painting is Van Gogh's Sunflower.

Environmental Protection Value

It can purify the metal content of the soil.

Garden Use

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

Family

Daisy

Genus

Sunflowers

Species

Common sunflower

Find your perfect green friends.

Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.

Download the App

Related Plants

Indian coral tree

Erythrina variegata

Montbretia

Crocosmia crocosmiiflora

Tievine

Ipomoea cordatotriloba

12 Flowers That Grow Well With Vegetables

20 Flowers That Make Beautiful Cut Arrangements

Trees That Bear Edible Nuts